Introducing MERIT Solutions’ Acceptable Use Policy Template

Merit Solutions now has a template of our Acceptable Use Policy (AUP) conveniently placed on our website for all customers to download and review for their employees. In this piece, we will walk through what an Acceptable Use Policy is, and why it is important for employees to review and sign one.

An Acceptable Use Policy is a document issued by an organization (such as Merit Solutions) that outlines how the technology in that network should be used. It is essential for keeping all users and participants of the network on the same page, to ensure technology is both used appropriately as well as safely for work needs. The safety and security of our customers and their employees is our number one priority, and all users adhering to the Acceptable Use Policy is how we achieve it.

The Acceptable Use Policy clearly outlines how our technology should be used for business needs, highlighting essential practices for preserving the integrity of company data, sensitive information, and equipment. Employees will learn how they are expected to treat sensitive information while working at their desk, how to keep a secure password on their accounts, appropriate vs. inappropriate uses of the internet, how to properly use email on their machines, the rules for installing software on machines, among other important technology use pillars.

The Acceptable Use Policy also serves as an understanding to the employee that they are operating the company’s equipment, and, as such, they should have no expectation of privacy while using the machine. The policy emphasizes that, while personal use is acceptable within reason, the company is not liable for any personal data loss that comes from this use, and that, most importantly, the company reserves the right to monitor the use of the machine at any time. This monitoring ensures the device is being used within accordance of the policy agreement, and that it can continue to be used to better the company’s business needs.

It is essential employees review and sign the Acceptable Use Policy, and agree to the practices that will keep them and the company’s data safe. Employees need to acknowledge their understanding that company equipment is monitored by the company and they should not treat the device as their own personal machine for these purposes. It also serves to protect the business’ interests in the event of any issues relating to the employee or user. Agreeing to a clear and concise Acceptable Use Policy from the outset means everyone understands the rules, and prevents a situation that arises from misunderstading and miscommunication.

We encourage you to download and carefully review the template from our website, build one for your specific organzation and network, and then distribute the policy to employees accordingly. You can find the template by clicking this link, filling out your first and last name and email address, then by clicking submit. Protecting the safety and security of company resources is made easier when all members of the network are on the same page.

Photo by Cytonn Photography on Unsplash